5 fabulous SA food and wine festivals
After a long stretch of Netflix, Uggies, and takeaway Thai, it’s time to think about your post-hibernation diet and social calendar. Here are some delicious, thirst-quenching options guaranteed to chase away the winter blues.
1. Winter Reds
When: 29–31 July
Where: Across the Adelaide Hills
The theme of this year’s Winter Reds festival is aptly titled ‘What’s Your Red?’, so head for the hills to take your pick or maybe find a new favourite.
In winter, the Adelaide Hills – one of the world’s premier cooler climate wine regions – conjures visions of crackling open fires, hooded parkas and, of course, sipping a glass of red after a tiring day.
So, Tempranillo, Grenache, Merlot, Gamay – what’s your red?
2. A Little More Barossa
When: 1–31 August
Where: Across the Barossa Valley
The Barossa equals wine, right? Well, yes, but it’s also one of SA’s finest culinary destinations. And we just can’t get enough.
Head to A Little More Barossa during August to enjoy long lunches paired with world-class wines, and sample chocolates from exotic lands.
You can even take a pottery class with a glass of wine in hand while nibbling away at tasty morsels as you craft your clay masterpiece. If pottery isn’t your preference, put your apron on and learn to barbecue like a master chef. You can even channel your inner winemaker by blending your own batch of wine.
With more than 50 events across 40 locations, including Seppeltsfield and Jacob’s Creek, A Little More Barossa has something for food and wine lovers alike.
3. Fleurieu Food Festival
When: 1– 31 August
Where: Across the Fleurieu Peninsula
The Fleurieu Peninsula may be known as a popular surfing destination, but it’s also a haven for fine food and wine.
Visit this oh-so-green-in-winter paradise during Fleurieu Food Festival to experience a smorgasbord of tempting treats and fun activities.
Stop by the famous Willunga Farmer’s Market where you can learn how to bake bread, make gin and hunt for truffles with some super-nosed pooches. You can even make your own sausages, bacon, and cheese, or munch on a crunchy Yorkshire pudding made with local eggs and milk.
The only downside will be having to pick what to do first. Luckily there’s a whole month dedicated to tasting your way around this stunning region.
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4. CheeseFest Gather & Graze
When: 14–16 October
Where: Rymill Park/Murlawirrapurka
Did you know there are more than 1800 varieties of cheese in the world, from asiago and haloumi, to provolone and Camembert? CheeseFest is bound to have a few that tickle your fancy.
Gather and graze in Rymill Park/Murlawirrapurka where there’ll be plenty of, you guessed it, cheese. But there’s so many more treats for your palate; taste-test fine food, wine, and beer from across the country.
Take your picnic rug and relax with a slice of blue and a glass of red, or wander around for some handy hints from famous foodies and chefs.
Forget the plain old cheese toastie – you’ll be impressing your friends with a fancy fromage soufflé in no time.